Paranoid Personality Disorder

Paranoid personality disorder (PPD) is a psychiatric disorder distinguished by a pervasive pattern of distrust and suspiciousness of others, leading to impairments in psychosocial functioning. This pattern of behavior typically begins in early adulthood and may increase the risk for depressive and anxiety disorders.[1] Some individuals with PPD may later develop schizophrenia. Individuals with PPD often suspect without sufficient basis that others are exploiting or deceiving them and are preoccupied with unjustified doubts about the loyalty or trustworthiness of friends and associates. Patients with PPD are reluctant to confide in others due to an unwarranted fear that the information could be used maliciously against them. In relationships, individuals with PPD often have recurrent, unjustified suspicions about the fidelity of their spouse or sexual partner.